The Keeshond is a medium-sized dog with a striking wolf-like appearance, characterized by a plush double coat and distinctive facial markings.

Medium-sized, typically 17-18 inches tall.

Double coat with a thick, harsh outer coat and a soft, downy undercoat.

Mixture of gray, black, and cream, with characteristic 'spectacles' around the eyes.

Heavily plumed and carried curled over the back.

Wedge-shaped with a well-defined stop and expressive dark eyes.

Keeshonds are known for their friendly, outgoing, and affectionate nature, making them excellent companions.

Exceptionally sociable and enjoy human company.

Naturally vigilant and make good watchdogs, though not aggressive.

Quick learners, but can be sensitive to harsh training methods.

Form strong bonds with their families and thrive on interaction.

Enjoy games and activities, maintaining a youthful spirit.

Keeshonds are best suited for individuals or families who can provide plenty of companionship and are committed to their grooming and exercise needs.

Vigilant watchdogs without being aggressive.

May bark excessively if not properly trained and socialized.

The ideal owner for a Keeshond is someone who can offer a loving, interactive home environment and is dedicated to meeting the breed's needs for companionship, grooming, and activity.

Caring for a Keeshond involves regular grooming to manage their thick coat, a balanced diet, and providing a comfortable living environment.

Brush several times a week, and daily during shedding seasons, to prevent matting.

Bathe only when necessary, typically every few months, to avoid drying out their skin.

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.

Adaptable to various living situations, but thrive in environments with human interaction.

Regular teeth brushing is recommended to maintain dental health.

Keeshonds are intelligent and eager to please, making training relatively easy, though they require moderate exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Keeshonds respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as praise and treats. Early socialization and consistent training are crucial to prevent them from becoming overly sensitive or stubborn. Their intelligence means they can learn a wide variety of commands and tricks.

Keeshonds need moderate daily exercise, including walks, playtime, and mental stimulation. Aim for at least 30-60 minutes of activity per day. They enjoy interactive games and activities that challenge their minds.

Utilize treats, praise, and play to motivate and reward good behavior.

Expose your Keeshond to various people, places, and situations from a young age.

Maintain a consistent training routine to reinforce commands and expectations.

Provide puzzle toys and interactive games to keep their minds engaged.

They respond poorly to harsh training; be patient and gentle.

Keeshonds are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain genetic health issues.

A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis.

A condition where the kneecap dislocates, causing pain and lameness.

A disorder of the parathyroid glands that causes elevated calcium levels in the blood.

A neurological disorder that can cause seizures.

The Keeshond, pronounced 'kayz-hawnd,' descends from the same Arctic progenitors as the Samoyed, Chow Chow, and Pomeranian. The breed served as a companion and watchdog on Dutch barges in the 17th and 18th centuries. It became a symbol of the Dutch Patriot faction, led by Cornelis 'Kees' de Gyselaer, from which the breed gets its name. The Keeshond was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1930. Despite a decline in popularity after the French Revolution, the breed was revived in the 20th century, primarily due to the efforts of Baroness van Hardenbroek.

Yes, Keeshonds are generally excellent with children, known for their gentle and playful nature.

Yes, Keeshonds have a double coat and shed moderately year-round, with heavier shedding seasons.

Keeshonds need moderate exercise, about 30-60 minutes daily, including walks and playtime.

Yes, Keeshonds are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement.

Yes, Keeshonds can adapt to apartment living if their exercise and social needs are met.

Keeshonds are alert and can be vocal, but proper training can help manage excessive barking.

They can be prone to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, PHPT, and epilepsy, among other conditions.

Brush them several times a week, and daily during shedding seasons, to prevent matting.

Yes, with proper socialization, Keeshonds generally get along well with other dogs.

It is believed to be named after Cornelis (Kees) de Gyselaer, leader of the 18th-century Dutch Patriot faction.